Secretary Granholm Kicks Off Workshop With Thanks for EM Employees, Industry, Local Partners

Despite the COVID-19 pandemic, EM has made significant progress in its cleanup mission, according to Energy Secretary Jennifer Granholm, who kicked off the first full day of the National Cleanup Workshop on Dec. 8.

Granholm began her remarks via video by thanking EM as well as members of the Energy Communities Alliance (ECA) and the Energy Facility Contractors Group (EFCOG). The three-day event was hosted by ECA in cooperation with EM and EFCOG. Granholm delivered her remarks to an audience of 662 people, with 465 attending in-person and 197 attending virtually.

“Every single one of you plays an indispensable role in this operation and the president is deeply invested in your efforts,” Granholm said. “It’s why the theme of this year’s workshop is so fitting. We’ve entered a new era for cleanup success, and you’re already capitalizing on it. In fact, despite the continuing challenges brought on by this pandemic, you have helped the Department achieve the vast majority of our environmental management priorities for 2021.”

Noting that the nature of EM’s work required many to continue reporting in person throughout the pandemic, she thanked them for “your steadfast commitment to the mission.”

Granholm also thanked those who have done their part to keep themselves, colleagues and families safe by getting vaccinated for COVID-19.

“I encourage everyone to get a booster shot as soon as possible,” she said. “Because we need all of you safe, healthy and ready to build on your achievements in 2021.”

The EM mission, Granholm pointed out, is more than “knocking down buildings” and cleaning tank waste.

“It’s about keeping the promises we’ve made to the American people,” she said. “It’s about ensuring that the families most directly impacted by the Department’s environmental legacy can breathe clean air, drink clean water and raise their children in safe homes. It’s about providing jobs and opportunities to the communities that have given so much to the Department for so long. It’s about protecting the planet.”

Granholm also touched on the Biden administration’s commitment to cutting America's emissions in half by 2032, reaching 100% clean electricity by 2035, and to achieving net zero carbon emissions by 2050.

“Of course, clean energy isn’t the only Biden administration priority you’re advancing,” she noted. “You’re developing plans to break down barriers facing minority contractors. You’re widening the talent pool by forming partnerships with Historically Black Colleges and Universities, as our Oak Ridge team has with Tennessee State University and Benedict College. You’re educating community members on the impacts of DOE’s environmental legacy, and convening discussions with stakeholders around how we can meet community needs.”

In her closing remarks, Granholm highlighted contributions EM can make as the administration seeks to tackle climate change, deliver environmental justice and build a diverse workforce.

“I look forward to watching those ideas come alive in the years ahead as you continue to deliver for the American people. And I congratulate you all once again for a phenomenal year of achievement.”

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